Minden Mayor Nick Cox joined other agencies in proclaiming May 17-23 National Safe Boating Week.

According to his proclamation, an average of 650 persons die each year in boating-related accidents in the United States. Of these fatalities, 76 percent are caused by drowning.

The majority of these accidents are said to be caused by human error or poor judgment and a significant number could have been prevented with life jackets.

During Safe Boating Week, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) will be reminding all boaters about the importance of being safe, responsible and knowledgeable while on the water. Safe Boating Week is the perfect time for all boaters to inspect their vessels to ensure that all required safety equipment is on board and that vessels are in good working condition.

LDWF agents will be out in full force during the week to perform boating safety checks that include making sure all personal flotation device (PFD) regulations are being followed and that each vessel has a sober operator.